KNEC Suffers Setback As Teachers Threaten to Boycott Supervision
The Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has issued a stern warning that they may boycott their duties related to invigilating, supervising, and marking national examinations, including the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). This potential action is in response to the poor treatment and unfavorable working conditions their members have experienced.
As the scheduled dates for national examinations approach, KUPPET has expressed concerns about the working conditions, inadequate and risky environments, and the meager and delayed payment of salaries for their members. They have demanded an agreement with the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) to address these issues before committing to provide their services.
During an annual general meeting, KUPPET leaders from various regions gathered to discuss these concerns. They highlighted the lack of an agreement between KUPPET and KNEC regarding the appointment and utilization of union members for invigilation and marking of national exams.
Teachers often work long hours during invigilation, resulting in overtime work, but KNEC does not provide equal pay for this additional effort.
Also Read:Â KNUT and KUPPET at Loggerheads over JSS Union Membership
KUPPET has expressed concerns about the rates of payment for marking papers, with variations based on the subject. Teachers find the discrepancies unjust. Additionally, the working conditions at exam marking centers have been criticized, with concerns about unhygienic dormitories and the risk of contracting infections.
KUPPET has urged its members not to report to the examination and marking centers until KNEC addresses these issues and seeks to improve working conditions and marking rates.
The union also opposes the Ministry of Education’s attempts to assume some functions of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and aims to protect the TSC’s independence. KUPPET seeks to bridge the pay gap between classroom teachers and head teachers, reduce the deployment of junior school teachers to primary schools, and address various challenges within the education sector.
In conclusion, KUPPET is taking a firm stance on multiple issues, including working conditions, pay disparities, and deployment of teachers, urging its members to support these efforts through negotiation and collective action.
KNEC Suffers Setback As Teachers Threaten to Boycott Supervision
